The fifth annual Parks & Rec. Kids’ Karnival was held Saturday afternoon at Southbridge Mall.
Businesses and organizations gathered to give children and their families activities to do throughout the day and also a chance to learn about how to healthy lifestyles.
“It brings families together and gives them something to so do on a Saturday, especially during the winter,” said Rachel Herman, Assistant Program Coordinator for Parks & Rec.
Children were able to learn about how much sugar is in a quarter pounder from Curves, how to do a karate kick from the Mason City Black Belt Academy and even got to learn some stretches from Active Kidz Gymnastics and Tumbling.
To get some exercise of their own, children were able to climb an inflatable slide all day, provided by the North Iowa Youth Center.
Regan Banks, the Youth Center’s Director said the Kids’ Karnival is a great opportunity for families to learn the importance of staying active and eating right. Newcomer to the event, Reggie Johnson of Hampton, agrees.
“Exercise is everything,” Johnson said. “Sitting in front of a computer all day hurts your eyes, back, neck – it’s bad for you.”
The Kids’ Karnival was free to all and was a joint event put on by the Mason City Parks & Recreation Department and North Iowa Youth Center.
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